Ultimate 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary: History, Nature, Shopping & Bosphorus Sunset including Princes' Islands and Eyüp

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Istanbul, Turkey on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hafız Mustafa 1864

Start your day with an authentic Turkish breakfast along with their famous baklava at this historic spot, open from 8 am.
TRY100, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hagia Sophia

Immerse in Byzantine splendor and stunning mosaics of Hagia Sophia Museum, open 9 am to 7 pm.
TRY150, 2h0m

11:30am

Tour the Blue Mosque

Explore the iconic Blue Mosque and admire its exquisite Iznik tiles, open 9 am to 5 pm, avoiding prayer times.
Free, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Savor traditional Turkish meatballs and mezes near the historic district, open 11 am to 7 pm.
TRY120, 1h0m

2:00pm

Topkapi Palace

Discover the majestic Ottoman palace with rich collections and lovely gardens, open 9 am to 6:45 pm.
TRY200, 3h0m

5:15pm

Grand Bazaar

Wander through one of the world’s oldest covered markets for souvenirs, spices, and crafts, open 9 am to 7 pm (closed Sundays).
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hamdi Restaurant

Indulge in delicious kebabs with Golden Horn views at this well-loved restaurant, open until 11 pm.
TRY250, 1h30m
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Day 2: Eyüp & Sunset

Istanbul, Turkey on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi

Enjoy a rich and regional Turkish breakfast in the lively Çengelköy neighborhood, open from 8 am.
TRY110, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Explore this historic mosque complex, an important pilgrimage site, open all day until evening.
Free, 1h0m

11:15am

Eyüp Teleferik (Cable Car) Ride

Take the cable car to Pierre Loti Hill for panoramic views and a relaxing café atmosphere, operating daily till dusk.
TRY30, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Eyüp local restaurant

Taste authentic Turkish dishes in the Eyüp area for a local dining experience, many open until 3 pm.
TRY130, 1h0m

2:00pm

Free afternoon to relax or explore nearby parks

Take time to rest or visit nearby natural spots such as Rami Garden for a leisurely stroll.
Free, 3h30m

5:30pm

Head to Bosphorus waterfront at Ortaköy

Arrive early to secure a spot for the breathtaking Bosphorus sunset with picturesque views of the Bosphorus Bridge.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Feriye Lokantası

Dine on refined seafood and Ottoman-inspired dishes by the Bosphorus, the restaurant stays open until 11 pm.
TRY320, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nature & Shopping

Istanbul, Turkey on July 7, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at your hotel or local café

Have a light Turkish breakfast before your trip to the Princes' Islands, preparing for a day outdoors.
Included or TRY80, 1h0m

8:30am

Ferry to Büyükada (Princes' Islands)

Board a ferry from Kabataş terminal to Büyükada, known for historic mansions and car-free streets. The ride takes about one hour.
TRY50, 1h0m

9:45am

Bike or Horse Carriage Tour on Büyükada

Explore pine forests, waterfront views, and landmarks like Aya Yorgi Church by bike or carriage.
TRY35, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Milto Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning sea views at this popular Büyükada restaurant, open from noon.
TRY160, 1h0m

1:30pm

Return ferry to Istanbul

Take the ferry back to Istanbul to continue your afternoon activities, approximately one hour journey.
TRY50, 1h0m

3:00pm

Shopping at Istiklal Avenue & Taksim Square

Explore the bustling Istiklal Avenue with its range of shops, cafes, and street performances, concluding at Taksim Square. Shops open 10 am to 10 pm.
Free, 2h0m

5:15pm

Coffee Break at Mandabatmaz

Unwind with some of Istanbul’s strongest Turkish coffee in this cozy café near Istiklal Avenue, open late.
TRY40, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at 360 Istanbul

Cap off your Istanbul adventure with modern fusion cuisine and a panoramic rooftop view of the city, open until midnight.
TRY300, 1h30m
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